Relaxed 11-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Dundee

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Arthur's Seat. This beloved hiking area is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Holyrood Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Holyrood Palace, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Edinburgh. This palace is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dean Village. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Then, head to Edinburgh Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Royal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Ensign Ewart, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tonic, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Edinburgh allows for both. Start by heading to Edinburgh Castle. This astonishing castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, a visually striking distillery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Camera Obscura, a notable museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Scottish National Gallery. Round off your day at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, another gem in Edinburgh with majestic features to discover.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Don’t miss out on dining at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Black Ivy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Edinburgh.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Edinburgh on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular street, Royal Mile. Afterward, continue to The Edinburgh Dungeon, a haunted house every traveler should visit.

As you explore Edinburgh’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to The Real Mary King's Close. This locally renowned museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to St Giles' Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by National Museum Of Scotland, an interesting museum in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Waverley Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Royal Oak, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Oxford Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Edinburgh and beyond. With 1 night left in Edinburgh, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Edinburgh allows for both. Start by heading to Melrose Abbey. This intriguing monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Queen Mary's House, an instagrammable visitor center, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Jedburgh Abbey, an underrated monument.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Edinburgh.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fishers In The City, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Amber Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ondine Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Alchemist Edinburgh, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Regent Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Bow Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Scotland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Dunfermline and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Crosshill and the village of Falkland. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Edinburgh covers several incredible sights, including a park, a palace, a castle, a golf course and much more! Start your adventure at Pittencrieff Park. This underrated park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Lochore Meadows, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Falkland Palace & Garden. This worthwhile palace offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St Andrews Castle, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Old Course Hotel. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Aberdeen. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Aberdeen.

Don’t miss out on dining at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Slains Castle. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Northern Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Grill provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Aberdeen, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

A visit to Union Street in Aberdeen is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Start by visiting Duthie Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Aberdeen Maritime Museum, another must-visit landmark and intriguing maritime museum renowned for its history-steeped features.

We also recommend visiting Seaton Park, a worthwhile park.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Aberdeen offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Aberdeen offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Foodstory, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ninety-Nine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Aberdeen and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like St. Machar Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Old Blackfriars is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Krakatoa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Aberdeen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Dundee for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.

Today’s agenda in Aberdeen includes a marina, a war memorial, a castle, a nature reserve and much more! Stonehaven Harbour is must-visit marina and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Stonehaven War Memorial, an underrated war memorial, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dunnottar Castle, a standout castle, also available for your discovery today.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dundee in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dundee has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Daisy Tasker, a highly-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Fort. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The King Of Islington after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Bank Bar Dundee, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Salty Dog also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Dundee, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dundee, and meet locals along the way!

Dundee is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a museum, an art gallery, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Dundee Law and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Verdant Works, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dundee Contemporary Arts, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Rrs Discovery. When you're finished at the museum, Slessor Gardens awaits your visit. This park is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dundee, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Porters Bar & Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dundee.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dundee and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Trades House, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Speedwell Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dundee. Draffens is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 10 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Dundee. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This intriguing museum is a heritage-rich place to see in Dundee. Continue your discovery at Baxter Park, a visually striking park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dundee, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pentland Hills Regional Park. This up-and-coming nature reserve offers an eye-catching encounter with Dundee. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dundee.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Edinburgh. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Monteiths? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Andaluz as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.